The .gov means it’s official.Federal government websites always use a .gov or .mil domain. Before sharing sensitive information online, make sure you’re on a .gov or .mil site by inspecting your browser’s address (or “location”) bar.

This site is also protected by an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate that’s been signed by the U.S. government. The https:// means all transmitted data is encrypted — in other words, any information or browsing history that you provide is transmitted securely.

Discretionary Elimination of Reduced Price Charges in the School Meal Programs

Breadcrumb

The purpose of this memorandum is to clarify for State and local operators of the school meal programs the permissible use of funds from the nonprofit school food service account to lower or eliminate reduced price student meal charges.

At the discretion of the School Food Authorities (SFA), participating schools and institutions that are not operating a special provision may offer meals at no cost to students who would otherwise qualify for reduced price benefits. The expenditures associated with covering the reduced price student payments may be funded from the nonprofit food service account. Schools electing to take advantage of this flexibility continue to receive Federal reimbursement based on meals claimed by students in the reduced price category. Only paid students will be charged for meals. SFAs are permitted to implement this option selectively between the Programs (National School Lunch and School Breakfast) and serving sites they operate.